Ramen Dreams….

Here is an update to my “Ramen Dreams” posts from 2014 and 2015.
I’ve been in search of the best bowl of ramen on O’ahu. For me, it’s the combination of the broth, the noodles, and the chashu that makes it so magical. I think I’ve pretty much sampled all of the best shops on the island:

Paitan Ramen from Tenkaippin.

Miso Cha-Shu Ramen from Ramen Kai.

Kikuzo Ramen from Menchanko-Tei.

Belly Bowl from Lucky Belly.

Spicy Tsukemen from Kiwami.

Spicy Kotteri Tonkotsu Ramen from Agu Ramen Bistro.

Tan Tan Ramen from Goma Tei.

Kakuni Paitan Ramen from Yotteko-Ya.

Shoyu Ramen from Hokkaido Ramen Santouka.

Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen from Ramen Nakamura.

Tan Tan Men from Gomaichi.

Beefy Wild from Kamitoku Ramen.

Tonkotsu-Shibori from Ramen Manichi.

Black Garlic Original from Golden Pork Ton-kotsu Ramen Bar.

Tsukemen from Wagaya.

Tonkotsu Ramen from Menya Musashi.

Garlic Miso Ramen from Junpuu.

Ajitama Tsukemen from Tsujita.

The verdict:
My fave bowl of ramen by far was the Miso Cha-Shu Ramen at Japanese Ramen Kai on Kona Street. Unfortunately, the owner got homesick and moved back to Japan.

My 2nd favorite bowl of ramen was the Spicy Tsukemen at Kiwami. I was heartbroken when they closed.

So here are my current faves:

1. Agu Ramen Bistro on Isenberg Street. The Spicy Kotteri Tonkotsu (level 2 spiciness) is so flavorful and satisfying. We are regulars at the more convenient location in the Ward Centre.

2. Menya Musashi is a relatively new shop on Pensacola. Love the Tonkotsu Ramen here. The broth is deep & flavorful, and the noodles are thick & chewy. My current “go-to place.”

3. Wagaya is another newer ramen shop, located in McCully. The Tsukemen is awesome. Their curly noodles have a great texture. Will be back soon for the beef tongue.

4. Hokkaido Ramen Santouka at the entrance of Don Quijote. The Shoyu Ramen is savory and comforting. Part of a large chain, but still so good.

Not done sampling more places and more recommendations.
Always dreaming of ramen….